Repairs and maintenance supplier Fixflo is warning agents of a surge in demand for Electrical Installation Condition Reports in the short term.

Analysing data held on EICRs due for renewal in the next three years, Fixflo found that nearly half (49 per cent) will be due in 2026, and just over one-third (33 per cent) will be due in 2025. This is likely due to EICR requirements for all existing tenancies being introduced in 2021.

To prevent being caught by these spikes in demand, the supplier advises agents and landlords to organise their EICRs to be carried out next year, even if they aren’t due until 2025 or 2026.

In an industry already affected by shortages, these increases in demand could put further strain on contractors, leading to higher prices and lower availability during the busiest periods.

In a worst-case scenario, if an up-to-date EICR is not available for a property in time, this could result in rental voids and loss of income for landlords as it cannot be let. Carrying out inspections early also allows for enough time for any remedial actions to be taken.

Fixflo’s product training manager Jessica Dubey says: “This predicted surge in EICRs needed really shows the importance of ensuring inspections are arranged and carried out early and well before their due date. 

“Regulations around electrical safety in properties are strict, and with fines of up to £5,000 for a first offence or £30,000 for multiple breaches, plus a risk of rental voids if a property doesn’t have an up-to-date EICR, it’s in everyone’s interest to start booking as soon as possible.”

Dubey recommends following best practices such as keeping accurate records of EICR completion dates, setting reminders when renewals are due, and establishing relationships with trusted electricians.